Name: Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheddar Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred); 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup milk; 1 egg; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover); 1/4 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp butter; Salt & pepper, to taste; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

Enjoy a comforting and hearty Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes and Cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner. This layered dish combines savory ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes and a bubbly cheddar topping for a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

A close-up of a layered dish on a white plate, showing four clear layers: a crispy, golden-brown top layer with melted cheese dotted with green herbs and browned spots, beneath it a thick white creamy layer, followed by a cooked minced meat layer with a crumbly texture and some browned bits, then another thick white creamy layer at the bottom. Small pieces of crispy bacon and green herbs are scattered on the plate around the slice. The background features a white marbled texture and there is a bowl blurred in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (85/15 preferred)
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1/3 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or leftover)
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tbsp butter
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Step 3: Press the meat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the meat starts to set.
Step 4: While the meatloaf is baking, warm the mashed potatoes in a saucepan or microwave. Stir in sour cream and butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Carefully spread the seasoned mashed potatoes over the partially baked meatloaf layer, creating an even layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Remove from oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time and add extra flavor to the dish.
For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or grated onion to the meat mixture.
Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different twist.
Top with crispy bacon bits before baking for an extra savory crunch.
If you prefer, cook the meatloaf layer fully before adding the mashed potatoes and cheese to prevent overcooking the top layer.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To reheat without drying out, cover loosely with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

How to Serve

A white baking dish holds a cut square piece of layered casserole. The top layer is melted bright orange cheese with browned spots and small bits of crispy bacon, sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. Below that is a thick, smooth, light cream layer, likely mashed potatoes. The bottom layer is ground meat cooked with juices visible at the bottom of the dish. A wooden spatula lifts the square serving from the dish. The dish sits on a white marbled surface with a blue and white cloth partially under it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf layer and mashed potato topping separately and assemble them just before baking. This makes serving easier and saves time on the day you want to eat it.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

This dish can be frozen, but for best texture, freeze before baking the second time (before adding the cheese topping). Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.